German contemporary industrial architecture - Shaft Tower in coal mine factory in Essen

Getty Images/iStockphoto

The Ruhrgebiet

Once known for its belching steelworks and filthy coal mines, the Ruhrgebiet – a sprawling post-industrial region of 53 cities and 5.1 million people – has worked hard in recent decades to reboot for a high-tech future.


Attractions

Must-see attractions

Guidebooks

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of The Ruhrgebiet with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Go Beyond

The Ruhrgebiet and beyond